A program with a 70 per cent success rate of finding young people full-time employment is being promoted at Dubbo.
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The Youth Jobs PaTH (Prepare – Trial – Hire) offers an apprenticeship-style arrangement for organisations and young people seeking employment.
A federal government initiative, PaTH aims to break the cycle of long-term unemployment for school leavers by putting them in touch with potential employers.
Young people can sign up to be part of the program and they will be connected with employers for a four to 12 week period.
There is no commitment from either side beyond the initial period and employers don’t have to pay a wage.
The business is compensated by the government while the individual is also given a small incentive, as well as gaining experience.
Dubbo Business Chamber hosted an information night on Tuesday and president Matt Wright said PaTH had the potential to assist both parties.
“It is a good program that can put businesses and individuals in touch with no firm commitment for either side if it doesn’t work out,” Mr Wright said.
“Businesses are compensated for their time and the government pays the worker’s insurance, and there are wage subsidies if a person goes on to become full-time.
Employers tend to lean towards hiring experienced staff but there is a lot to be said for having a good attitude.
- Matt Wright
Parkes MP Mark Coulton attended Tuesday’s event and said the program had proven success in other regions.
“In Newcastle 70 per cent of the participants roll into full-time employment. I think there’s great opportunities here,” he said.
“I really encourage employers to look at growing local people. I know many of them are struggling to find staff.
“This PaTH program gives an opportunity to form a relationship with a young person who could be a potential staff member without the obligations to employ them to start with.”
One of the keys to the success of the program is the voluntary participation of individuals.
“I think it’s important that people want to be there. There have been programs before where people have almost been forced and it just hasn’t worked,” Mr Wright said.
“Employers tend to lean towards hiring experienced staff but there is a lot to be said for having a good attitude.
“You can teach skills, and people can gain experience, but you can’t teach attitude.”
Those interested in participating in the program can visit jobactive.gov.au and register their interest in the program.
